Welcome to 2021 …. how much have we all missed hockey ….
As promised we have some encouraging news about Melbourne Ice Hockey and our return to sport in 2021. The COVID 19 pandemic impacted many sports in 2020 and Ice Hockey in Melbourne has been one of the hardest hit due to our Winter Season, indoor stadiums, extended lock downs and of course the availability of ice.
The AIHL and team governors have agreed that it is still not safe or practical to run a full National Competition and risk the health and safety of our players and team staff by travelling. We will not be awarding the Goodall Cup this season and will not be bringing imports into the country in such uncertain international times. Victoria and New South Wales have agreed to stage local competitions, presented and sanctioned by the AIHL. We will be playing under normal rules and governance processes.
So our plan is to bring back ELITE hockey to Melbourne Fans in a controlled manner and one that complies with the State | Federal Health Guidelines at all times for players, staff, members and fans and includes;
- A Proposed Victorian Super Series, with the ICE, Mustangs and showcasing Victoria’s best talent and up & coming players.
- A proposed Later Season Tournament with at least four AIHL Teams.
Obviously all fixtures will be subject to ongoing COVID-19 regulations, rink | stadium availability and especially the on-going health and the on-going wellbeing of our athletes.
We continue to consult with the playing group in developing the 2021 plan and at the moment and confident of their commitment – in fact they are just dying to get on to the Ice. Training is imminent.
Over the next three weeks, we will be working hard to confirm all upcoming arrangements, develop the schedule, membership options, seating, prices, streaming and ticketing. These arrangements are expected to be in place by mid-March and we will keep you informed as we progress.
The Ice Crew.
